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Maintenance Tips To Consider Before Storing Your Boat

September 27, 2016 by National Safe Boating Council

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No matter if you enjoy boating during the hot, sunny days of summer or during the winter, when the waters are decidedly less busy, it’s important that all boaters properly store their boats and safety equipment.

Before reading the following tips, think about what maintenance routine you perform when putting away your boat for the season. Do you already run through a mental checklist? Here are our tips that could save you time, money, and maybe a pesky headache when you’re ready to take the boat out next time!

Gas Tank: According to Boating Magazine, it is recommended that you top off your gas tank and also consider adding a gas stabilizer to prevent condensation buildup. After adding the stabilizer, you should run the engine for at least 15 minutes.

Hull: If your hull has any damage either from sun, water, or other elements, make sure to repair it before putting it in storage as it may become worse with time.

Trailer: Check that all lights work properly and keep the trailer somewhere safe and dry. Check for any corrosion on the trailer parts and replace if necessary.

Life Jackets: Perhaps most importantly, check all life jackets for erosion and tearing. If necessary, replace them. If they are still in good shape, store them in a dry place to prevent deterioration during the off-season. Click here for tips on performing routine maintenance on inflatable life jackets.

We hope these tips will protect your boat and will also get you back on the water, doing what you love, as fast as possible.

Wear It! unites the efforts of a wide variety of boating safety advocates and is produced under a grant from the Sports Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard. Follow Wear It! on Facebook and Twitter: facebook.com/safeboatcampaign and twitter.com/boatingcampaign.

Reference to any specific commercial product, process, or service, or the use of any trade, firm or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the U.S. Coast Guard.